Audaz ADZ-3040vsSeiko 5 Sports SKX series

Owners widely praise the Audaz Seafarer's versatile design, fitting for both diving and formal wear, and note its NH35 automatic movement and 200m water resistance. One owner highlights the Sea Ranger's amazing lume with a gorgeous phosphorus blue color. However, some owners criticize the Audaz Sand Color Dial as a blatant copy of iconic watches, deeming the "affordable luxury" claim disingenuous, while others express skepticism about the water resistance and call it a Rolex clone. The 42mm case is noted as being a little big on smaller wrists. Overall, owners are split on the Audaz, with praise for its lume and versatility tempered by significant criticism regarding its design originality and perceived value.

The Seiko 5 Sports SKX series is widely praised for its value, robust build, and powerful lume, with owners appreciating its comfortable bracelets and improved movement featuring hacking and hand-winding. Some owners find the original SKX models heavy and bulky, while others praise their ruggedness and iconic dive watch design. Reviewers note the 38mm models offer great value at around €350 and are exemplary gateway watches, though their 100m water resistance without a screw-down crown makes them unsuitable for diving. The Seiko 5 Sports SKX series is seen as a decent watch, especially under £200, but lacks the tool watch capabilities of the original SKX, missing a screw-down crown, bezel pip, and ISO rating. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Seiko 5 Sports SKX series well for its blend of value, improved movement, and tool-watch aesthetic, despite some missing dive certifications.